On Sunday, May 19, Ukiah Valley residents were treated to the spectacle of nearly 50 motorcycle riders dressed in dapper attire touring Ukiah and surrounding areas, as part of the annual Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, a worldwide fundraising event aim…
On Sunday, May 19, Ukiah Valley residents were treated to the spectacle of nearly 50 motorcycle riders dressed in dapper attire touring Ukiah and surrounding areas, as part of the annual Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, a worldwide fundraising event aimed at supporting men's physical and mental health.
The Ride's Ukiah team was started in 2019 by Ukiah resident David Bookout. In its first year the Ukiah ride had 29 participants and raised $6,000 for the charity. Since then the annual event has grown to nearly 50 riders, who raised almost $19,000 this year.
"I am awed by the support that motorcyclists in the Ukiah area have shown in the five years I've hosted the Gentleman's Ride," explained Bookout.
"This support is a testament to the open hearts and hands of our community members that we have this incredible participation and fundraising that has donated a total of $64,500 to the Movember foundation in our five-year Gentleman's Ride history," he added.
Riding through the streets of Ukiah
According to Bookout, 2024 was the best year yet, bringing in nearly 50 riders and almost $19,000 in donations.
"The Ukiah team ranks 98th worldwide out of over 700 cities participating in the event for 2024. For a small community like ours, that's just amazing."
Bookout gives accolades to event sponsors and donors.
"The event wouldn't be possible without the support of generous donations and event sponsors," said Bookout.
This year's sponsors included: the City of Ukiah, Mendocino Roofing, D. William, Inc., TeleCom Services, Heather Penny's Beautiful Things, and Tony Armanino. The local Harley Owners' Group provided ride safety support, and the Ukiah Elk's Lodge provided the post-ride lunch venue catered by Bonnie Haskins.
On the ride for health
Bookout says he is looking forward to next year's event, and invites riders from Mendocino and Lake counties to join in next May. For more information on the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, and to sign up next year, go to www.gentlemansride.com.
The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride was established in 2012 to raise public awareness of men's health issues. Since its inception, the Ride has grown to over 100,000 riders in 121 countries worldwide, and has raised $50 million for the Movember Foundation, the official charity partner of the Ride.
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